Occult themes are a goldmine for the horror genre. With multiple mainstream religions who have a history of dark deeds and secrets, as well as the various cults out there, inspiration is everywhere for those that look for it. This film asks the question, what if a secret sect has something in their possession that could cause the apocalypse if unleashed. And how could they stop it?
That’s where a group of 13 academics (yep 13) and a professor come in! After being recruited by a mysterious catholic priest they arrive at what seems to be a normal church. Figurines of Mary and various religious figures hang from the walls. But it hides something in plain sight; a strange metal cylinder in the basement which contains a swirling green liquid and an ancient tome that needs to be deciphered.
Things start simply enough. Bulky 80s style computers and test equipment get set up in the halls. They complain and wonder why they are even here. Then the scientists begin to make breakthroughs. Differential equations are uncovered. Strange transmissions come through the computer suggesting doom. Then one academic goes missing and another. And oh yes, there’s a group of homeless people gathering around the building, just watching.
Things get exciting from here, and its seriously worth watching. Unfortunately the first 20 mins of the film are slow, as it was heavily inspired by Italian movies of the time, with extended credit sequences to boot. So be patient, because this movie really is something and has scenes that will stick with you as a horror watcher or tabletop gamer.
Prince of Darkness is the second movie in John Carpenter’s unofficial apocalypse trilogy. Followed by Into the Mouth of Madness, these are must-watch titles for those who like horror.
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